The phrase if you can't stand the heat, get out the kitchen is evident as eighty percent of businesses under the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) in Africa fail within the first five years of their existence despite having the highest entrepreneurship rate in the world, a 2022 Nigeria MSME report has shown

Despite the richness of Zimbabwean cuisine and the passion of its restaurateurs, an increasing number of eateries find themselves grappling with financial turmoil, teetering on the brink of closure.

Economic volatility, shifting consumer behaviours, regulatory constraints, and operational hurdles intertwine to form a daunting place for restaurant owners to navigate. As these factors meet, they cast a shadow over the viability of Zimbabwean restaurants, compelling stakeholders to confront the harsh realities of an industry in flux. We spoke to Sommelier and chef, Takura Makadzange.